Located just 247 miles northwest of Milwaukee and 90 miles east of Minneapolis/St. Paul, Chippewa Falls is the vibrant seat of Chippewa County, nestled along the beautiful Chippewa River. With a population of around 13,000 in the city and approximately 55,000 countywide, Chippewa Falls offers a welcoming, small-town atmosphere with a rich sense of community.

In June of 2019, BuzzFeed listed Chippewa Falls in the top 10 of “The 26 Best Small Towns in America.”

History

Founded in 1836 along the Chippewa River, Chippewa Falls grew from its roots in logging and fur trading into a thriving community. The town’s strong work ethic was shaped by its diverse immigrant population, including German, French, Scandinavian, and Irish settlers, whose influence is still felt today.

By the 1850s, Chippewa Falls had become a powerhouse in the lumber industry, with local sawmills producing 100,000 board feet of lumber daily. At its peak, the city was home to the largest sawmill in the world under one roof, cementing its place in the history of American industry.

Today

Chippewa County’s rich history is rooted in railroads, waterways, brewing, and recreation, shaping a dynamic and diverse community. Today, the Chippewa Valley offers a variety of living options, from vibrant, craft-urban downtown areas to serene, countryside retreats. With top-rated schools, safe and welcoming neighborhoods, a low-to-moderate cost of living, and a strong work ethic, Chippewa County is quickly becoming a leading destination for business growth and talent expansion.

From its early days of industry, the Chippewa Valley thrived in areas like railroads, brewing, agriculture, and recreation. Today, Chippewa Falls is home to iconic brands like Jacob Leinenkugel Brewing Company, Mason Shoe, Chippewa Springs Water, and the internationally recognized Cray Inc. The region continues to build on its industrial legacy while offering an exceptional quality of life, making it an increasingly attractive place to live, work, and do business.